The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved the disbursement of $1 billion to Pakistan, as part of its $7 billion loan program. Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed satisfaction over the approval, claiming it reflects improvement in the country’s economic situation. However, the decision comes amid strong objections from India, which urged the IMF to review Pakistan's loans, citing its continued support for cross-border terrorism. India raised concerns that such funds could be misused for military and terrorist purposes. This approval brings the total disbursements to $2 billion under the IMF's program for Pakistan. (PC: AFP)

In a dramatic and reportedly unprecedented move, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has reportedly been arrested by General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). Munir has allegedly been shifted to an undisclosed location, with Mirza reportedly assuming control of the armed forces. This internal shake-up comes amid escalating tensions with India, which reportedly shot down three Pakistani jets and captured two pilots—one in Jaisalmer and another in Akhnoor. An explosion was also reported near Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s residence, further fueling instability both at the border and within Pakistan’s military leadership. (PC: India Today)

India’s armed forces intercepted eight Pakistani missiles targeting military stations in Jammu, Samba, RS Pura, and Arnia on Thursday night, just a day after Indian strikes under “Operation Sindoor” hit terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. Loud explosions and red projectiles created panic in Jammu, followed by blackouts and air raid sirens. The Integrated Defence Staff confirmed no casualties, crediting swift kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures. The attack is being likened to Hamas-style tactics, reportedly linked to an ISI-Hamas meeting. Former CM Mehbooba Mufti urged restraint, while citizens fled indoors fearing further strikes. Tensions remain high across the region. (PC: Hindustan Times)

In a historic moment for the Catholic Church, Cardinal Robert Prevost of the U.S. has been elected as the 267th pope, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. The 69-year-old Chicago-born missionary appeared on the Vatican balcony to warm cheers from over 40,000 gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Delivering his first address, he spoke of peace, unity, and bridge-building, praising his predecessor, Pope Francis. He offered greetings in Italian and Spanish, reflecting his missionary years in Peru. Former President Donald Trump congratulated him, calling it a “great honor” for the U.S. The conclave's choice marks a new chapter for the Church. (PC: BBC)

India successfully neutralized a barrage of Pakistani drones and missiles targeting military installations across northern and western India on May 7-8, 2025. In retaliation for the Pahalgam attack that killed 26, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror sites in Pakistan. India’s defense systems thwarted the attack, while airstrikes eliminated over 100 terrorists. Pakistan’s air defense, including HQ-9 missile launchers in Lahore, suffered significant damage. India maintains a commitment to non-escalation, provided Pakistan respects the ceasefire. Meanwhile, cross-border shelling by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir led to 16 civilian casualties. (PC: AP)

India’s recent missile strikes on targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, part of Operation Sindoor, have reignited global concerns over South Asia’s volatile military balance. India claims the strikes hit “terrorist infrastructure” in response to a deadly attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Pakistan responded with claims of downing five Indian jets and retaliatory fire into Indian-administered Kashmir. The escalation highlights the vast military disparity—India ranks 4th globally in military strength, while Pakistan stands 12th—yet both possess nuclear capabilities. Their growing arms race, fueled by international suppliers, raises urgent questions about regional stability and global peace. (PC: ORF)

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for a deadly IED attack in Balochistan’s Kachhi district, killing 14 Pakistan Army soldiers, including Special Operations Commander Tariq Imran and Subedar Umar Farooq. The army vehicle was completely destroyed. Pakistan's military launched a sanitisation operation to clear remaining militants. This attack occurred just a day after India carried out targeted airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied territory under Operation Sindoor. Although no official link has been established, the back-to-back incidents have intensified regional security concerns. The BLA has conducted similar attacks in the past, citing exploitation of Balochistan’s resources by the federal government.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told an all-party meeting that “Operation Sindoor is on, and India will hit back if Pakistan escalates”, following airstrikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. Around 100 terrorists were reportedly killed. Singh emphasized the need for confidentiality due to operational sensitivity. Rahul Gandhi expressed full support, saying, “We understand the situation.” Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge questioned PM Modi’s absence but avoided criticism, stating, “This is a time of crisis.” Leaders across parties praised the armed forces and assured support. The strikes responded to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians. (PC: PTI)

Following India’s missile strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and PoK under Operation Sindoor, Rajasthan and Punjab are on high alert. Borders have been sealed, schools shut, and leaves of police and railway staff cancelled. Shoot-on-sight orders have been issued for suspicious activity along the Rajasthan border. Sukhoi-30 MKI jets are patrolling western airspace, and anti-drone systems have been activated. Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has suspended all public events. Blackout orders are in effect in Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. The Indian government maintains the strikes were measured and targeted only terrorist infrastructure in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack. (PC: Live India)

Multiple blasts were reported Thursday morning on Walton Road in Lahore, Pakistan, sparking panic among residents. Visuals showed people fleeing homes as thick smoke filled the sky. Explosions were also reported near Askari 5 and Naval College. The incident follows India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan and PoK in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Lahore and Sialkot airports were temporarily shut due to border tensions. Pakistan has since launched a disinformation campaign, while India clarified its strikes were precise and avoided civilian areas. The situation remains tense with the Pakistani military reportedly moving to alert positions.